Logitech Ultrathin Keyboard for iPad mini Review

Small in size, not in style.

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February 18, 2013

After the success of the Ultrathin Keyboard for the full-size iPad, there was little doubt Logitech would follow up with a smaller version for the iPad mini. Now available for $79.99, the Ultrathin Keyboard mini carries over the same quality construction and useful functions of its predecessor. But as is the case with any reduced-size hardware, the usefulness of a mini keyboard will vary by user.

Snapping magnetically to the side of the iPad mini -- similar to Apple's Smart Cover -- the Ultrathin mini is an incredibly solid, well-made product. When not in use, the keyboard works as a screen protector, featuring a similar, quality aluminum shell as found on the iPad mini itself. The plastic keys are sturdy, offering a pleasant tactile response with each press. The cradle for the iPad mini is also magnetized with just enough pull to keep the device in place, but not so much that disconnecting is a pain.

Obviously, the rigid construction does add some heft. At .45 pounds, the Ultrathin mini nearly doubles the weight of the iPad, but it still maintains a low-profile when closed against the device. Four rubberized pads protect the screen from the keys, although pressure in the center of the cover might lead to contact.

Pairing the iPad mini with the keyboard via Bluetooth is a breeze, and through multiple uses, the Ultrathin mini had no issues reconnecting seamlessly. A handy on-off slider on the side extends battery power, and based upon our time with the keyboard, Logitech's claims of 3 months on a single charge seem legit. We used the Ultrathin mini straight from the box, and it's still going strong.

The Ultrathin mini manages to pack in a relatively full-featured QWERTY keyboard, despite its diminutive size. The only caveats, in regards to key placement, are Caps Lock and Tab. As an obvious consequence of size, Caps Lock is doubled with the A-key, while Tab resides atop the Q-key. Using either is a bit awkward at first, but like many features of the Ultrathin mini, it becomes second-nature with practice.

But outside of the Caps Lock issue, the Ultrathin mini's varied assortment of function keys are a standout feature. Logitech has done a great job of working in some of the most basic tasks associated with the iPad mini along the number-key line. A Siri key makes voice search easy, and a quick-button press to slideshow pictures stored on the device is a welcome addition. Cut-and-paste is wonderfully accessible via keystroke, and the arrow keys can select text word by word. If you're someone who writes quite a bit on the iPad mini, you'll rarely feel the need to use the touch screen within a word processing app or Notes.

The Verdict

Sleek, Apple-inspired design and great features aside, the Ultrathin mini is incredibly small. Users with larger hands may find the experience a bit cramped, and there's certainly a question as to the device's usefulness over the similarly tiny iPad virtual keyboard. But if you're looking for a more tactile writing experience on the iPad mini, the Ultrathin mini is a solid, well-made option.